purpose

n.

1. Aim

   intention, end, goal, mission, objective, object, idea, design, hope, resolve, meaning, view, scope, desire, dream, expectation, ambition, intent, destination, direction, scheme, prospect, proposal, target, aspiration; see also plan 2.

2. Resolution

   tenacity, constancy, persistence; see confidence 2, determination 2, faith 1.

purpose connotes a defined or specific resolution or determination in the plan had in mind I have a purpose in writing you; intention is the general word implying a having something in mind as a plan or design, or referring to the plan had in mind; intent, a somewhat formal term common in legal usage, connotes more deliberation assault with intent to kill; aim refers to a specific intention and connotes a directing of all efforts toward this his aim is to become a doctor; goal suggests laborious effort in striving to attain something the presidency was the goal of his ambition; end emphasizes the final result one hopes to achieve as distinct from the process of achieving it does a desirable end ever justify the use of immoral means?; object is used of an end that is the direct result of a need or desire the object of the discussion was to arouse controversy; objective refers to a specific end that is capable of being reached her immediate objective is to pass the course

on purpose

to good purpose

to little (<strong><em>or</em> </strong>no) purpose

to the purpose

purpose

v.